Emporia State scored the first 21 points of the game and held on to defeated Nebraska-Kearney in their home opener. The Hornets racked up 499 yards of total offense on the night.

For the Hornets Brent Wilson was 23 of 34 for 297 yards and four touchdowns. Dozie Iwuagwa carried the ball 19 times for 124 yards while Austin Willis caught six passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns. On defense Tariq Allen and Jordan Sanders each had 13 tackles and Gary Fortune and Chris Poston pulled down interceptions. For the Lopers Bronson Marsh was 31 of 51 for two touchdowns and 257 yards. Receiving Noah Housh caught three passes for 54 yards and a touchdown and Daniel DeShazer carried the ball 13 times for 51 yards. On defense Tyke Kozeal had 13 tackles while Kellen Werner made nine stops.